Position on H.R. 3286, H.R. 4290 & H.R. 6062

H.R. 3286: Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act: NPCA supports this legislation, which authorizes the National Park Service to acquire 551.14 acres for inclusion in Mammoth Cave National Park. This targeted boundary adjustment would help protect sensitive cave systems, wildlife habitat, and cultural resources connected to the park’s rich ecosystem. Protecting these lands will also help sustain the park’s strong tourism economy, directly supporting local businesses and communities throughout south-central Kentucky.

H.R. 4290 - Downwinder Commemoration Act: NPCA supports this legislation, which would place a commemorative plaque at White Sands National Park to support a more comprehensive narrative of the development of the atomic bomb. Manhattan Project National Historical Park recognizes the scientific excellence that supported an end to World War II and changed global geopolitics forever. However, the story is incomplete without acknowledging the devastating consequences of atomic bomb testing and implementation. The Downwinder communities of New Mexico, for generations and without adequate compensation, have suffered the health effects of exposure from testing at the Trinity Site through the Manhattan Project. The footprint of exposure spans a significant portion of New Mexico, including White Sands National Park. By telling a comprehensive story of this historical event, we can better avoid longstanding detrimental harm.

H.R. 6062 - To transfer administrative jurisdiction over certain parcels of federal land in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia: NPCA supports this legislation, which would transfer administrative jurisdiction over federal lands in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia from Customs and Border Protection to the National Park Service at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Consolidating these previously disjointed parcels under NPS management creates a more contiguous landscape that will improve both park operations and the visitor experience.